What is Thermal Bridging? Now You Know!

 

Thermal bridging is a common issue in all types of construction, and occurs at inefficient locations in a building’s insulating envelope. This decrease in heat resistance results in a higher heat exchange between interior and exterior — heat loss or infiltration, depending on the climate — and thus a decrease in energy efficiency.  A common thermal bridge in residential construction occurs at wall-to-ceiling and wall-to-floor intersections, where wood stud connections are insufficiently insulated (image). In the design of new construction, thermal bridging is more easily planned for and avoided, whereas existing conditions in renovation projects are more difficult to remedy. In addition to wasted heating/cooling dollars, localized surface temperature differentials can cause condensation and subsequent moisture and mold damage.

If you’ve heard the term “thermal bridging” tossed around but are not sure what it means, you’re in good company. Chances are, few of your friends (if any) can define thermal bridging, even though understanding its meaning can be invaluable when it comes to saving money on your energy bill.

Building Envelope (infrared)

A thermal bridge is a passage in a building envelope where heat is transferred at a considerably high rate. Thermal bridging  is a common issue in all types of construction, and occurs at inefficient locations in a building’s insulating envelope. This decrease in heat resistance results in a higher heat exchange between interior and exterior — heat loss or infiltration, depending on the climate — and thus a decrease in energy efficiency.

A common thermal bridge in residential construction occurs at wall-to-ceiling and wall-to-floor intersections, where wood stud connections are insufficiently insulated.  In the design of new construction, thermal bridging is more easily planned for and avoided, whereas existing conditions in renovation projects are more difficult to remedy. In addition to wasted heating/cooling dollars, localized surface temperature differentials can cause condensation and subsequent moisture and mold damage.

It’s easy to fill the cavity with insulation because of all the space you have to work with. It’s common to overlook the wood or steel framing of a building, but ironically, that is where most of the thermal bridging occurs. Reducing or eliminating thermal bridging is key if you want to save energy. Frequently, thermal bridging can lead to condensation or mold, which then leads to future retrofits.

Many of you have expressed an interest on the benefits of aerogel insulation. Thermablok is not a product that is meant to fill the cavities, but instead, its purpose is to act, literally,  as a thermal block. Thermablok is applied directly on the stud of the wood or metal frames. Thermablok is hydrophobic, which means it can substantially reduce thermal bridging and reduces the emission of greenhouse gases while maintaining its ability to prevent the growth of mold that will eventually damage your wood framing.

If you are looking to start fresh and “green” when it comes to protecting your structure from thermal bridging, below are some of the things you can do (presuming that you haven’t already):

1)  Do your homework. Understand the different types of insulating materials available, and the function of each product. Common loose fill, batt and blanket, and spray foam insulations do nothing to address thermal bridging. Thermablok, used in conjunction with other types of insulation that is commonly used to fill wall and ceiling cavities is going to produce the best results when it comes to preventing energy loss and combating thermal bridging.

2)  Locate a green contractor. A green contractor will help you determine the most efficient and cost-friendly green products for your project.

The goal is to reduce your energy bills, save you money in the long run, and reduce your carbon footprint on this earth. Feel good about making environmentally sound choices by building green.

Now you know!